Guide to Buying or Building Your Bug Out Bag: Essential Tips and Recommendations

Whether you are planning for a short-term emergency or long-term preparation, a bug out bag (BOB) is a crucial part of any survival kit. This article will guide you through the process of finding or building the perfect BOB, including advice on where to buy it and what essential items to include.

Where Can You Find or Build Your Bug Out Bag?

There are several options when it comes to purchasing or building a bug out bag. Some common choices include:

Amazon: Offers a wide variety of bug out bags and survival gear. EBay: A marketplace where you can find a diverse selection of bug out bags. AnythingMil Surplus: Sells military surplus gear, which can be a cost-effective way to get high-quality items. WordDoFine: An online store that provides custom-made bug out bags.

While many of these options are reliable, it's important to stay away from pre-made ones from some of these sources. Some of the items they use are substandard. Therefore, building your own bug out bag based on your specific needs is often the best approach. Focus on what you plan to use the bag for, whether it's a few hours or a few days, and whether you will be in an urban or rural area. Also, include only the essentials.

A good suggestion is to have a test run by spending a night outside with just what you have in your bag. Ideally, don't choose a sunny and warm time; go out when the weather is rainy and cold, to ensure that everything works properly and you are prepared for different conditions.

Essential Items in Your Bug Out Bag

Here are some essential items you should consider including in your bug out bag:

Water Pack or Water Bottle with Flair or Flare Gun: Useful for signaling or creating a quick fix in case of a water-related emergency. Medical Kit: Including Protein Bars for sustenance and first aid supplies like blister packs, band-aids, and antiseptic wipes. Tarp or Water-Proof Sheets: Ideal for building temporary shelters. 100 Foot of Para-Cord: Multi-purpose rope for various uses. Intrenching Tool: A small shovel for digging and building structures. Good Knife: Always included in any bug out bag due to its versatility. Hatchet: Useful for cutting and chopping in emergency situations. Compass and GPS Device: For navigation and finding your way. Flashlight with Extras: Include extra bulbs and batteries, or a small lantern. Fire Starting Gear: Including Lifeboat or Hurricane Matches and disposable cigarette lighters. Reflector Mirror for Signaling: Essential for long-distance communication. Candles and Thermal Blankets: To keep warm and prevent hypothermia. Other Emergency Gear: Such as a whistle, whistle, and power bank for your electronic devices.

Research online and read survival texts for more detailed information. Additionally, look for people in your area who are similarly prepared, such as former military or special forces types. Their experience and knowledge can be invaluable, but be cautious of their character to avoid misleading advice.

Lastly, always remember to stay prepared, and if you bleed a little in training, you won't bleed when you need to. Get out and test your bug out bag under different conditions to ensure you are as prepared as possible.